Read More

He added: “The money generated so far helps keep things going. That isn’t enough obviously to fix everything in the building. It needs new heating, new electrics, new toilets, a lot of infrastructure.

“In the background, there’s a trust set up to apply for grants from Heritage Scotland, Historic Scotland, The Big Lottery, all these places, and local businesses, so there’s a bigger fundraising thing going on.

“I’m hoping the building gets what it needs to survive, but I also know there’s the same story in every town in Britain as well – buildings all over the UK are looking for that kind of money.

“But this one I think is a bit of a special case, because it’s an outstanding building.”

Performers who included Hollie Robinson, Roy McLelland and Zoe Tait took to the stage in the church on Saturday, with Lower The Tone performing this Saturday, as Tommy aims to showcase the building as a future music venue.

And he says musicians from all over the west coast are looking to play as they too join the campaign for a brighter future for the church.

Hollie Robinson bids to help raise awareness to save the church building (Image: Roberto Cavieres)

Read More

He added: “Obviously local musicians are wanting to help out because it’s their town, but it’s going far and wide now, over the whole of the west of Scotland, with various musicians and choirs from various towns and cities interested.

“The concerts are for two things – to raise awareness of what’s going on and to spread the word that they need money, and it also gives you a wee glimpse into what the church can be used for in the future. It could be used for music, and obviously weddings will still be part of it as well. Music can play a big part in saving the building.

That’s what I’m trying to do. I’m trying to get the musicians in to spread the word. It’s to give people a bit of entertainment as the wander around the building.”

Lower The Tone will be playing this coming Saturday, from noon.

To help contribute to the Thomas Coats Memorial Church appeal, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/100daystosavecoatsmemorial